After a rather warm end of the year, winter has now really arrived. So, that calls for a wintery poem. Douglas Florian is an American poet, best known for his illustrated poetry books for children. The natural world is one of his preferred subjects, just like in this poem. Because of its imagery and simplicity, it’s ideal for children, but also very recognisable for adults. I almost felt my nose getting cold.
Look at winter
With winter eyes
As smoke curls from rooftops
To clear cobalt skies.
Breathe in winter
Past winter nose:
The sweet scent of black birch
Where velvet moss grows.
Walk through winter
With winter feet
On crackling ice
Or sloshy wet sleet.
Look at winter
With winter eyes:
The rustling of oak leaves
As spring slowly nears.
Douglas Florian
Alix in Wonderland 